4 off-beat places to visit in Tamil Nadu from Chennai

 

 

Dhanushkodi:
 

Where: An old abandoned town with ruins, Dhanushkodi, tells a haunting tale. In the 60s, a devastating cyclone ravished what was once a bustling tourist and commercial centre. So catastrophic was the cyclone, that the entire town was submerged and many lives unaccounted for post the aftermath.
Distance from Chennai: 600km by road
For whom: History and cultural buffs
Best time to visit: Dec - Jan
Other activities: Temple visiting, lounging on the beach

 

 

Tharangambadi:

 

 

Where: Earlier known as Tranquebar as it was a Danish colony. It is called the “place of singing waves” or Tharangambadi.  The place is small enough to cover it by foot
Distance from Chennai: by road it is 270 km
For whom:  History enthusiasts, cultural aficionados and those seeking some classic R&R
Best time to visit: Dec - April
Other activities: Bird watching, shopping

 

 

Muthupet Mangroves

 

Where: Where saline water meets sea, lie the mangroves of Muthupet, (just 8kms from Muthupet town) which are surrounded by rich flora and fauna. This is only accessible by boat
Distance from Chennai: 348 kms by road  
For whom: Nature and photography lovers
Best time to visit: Nov - Jan
Other activities: Bird watching
 

 

Alampari Fort
 

 

Where: Situated at Kadappakam village, this fort once belonged to the Mughals. It was an important port during the 18th century. The popular 2003 film, Pithamagan was shot here.
Distance from Chennai: 100 km
For whom:  For a quick day spend, and archeology buffs
Best time to visit: All through
Other activities:  Boat rides